Are you on the fence about hiring a videographer for your wedding? You're not alone! Squeezing another big item into your budget can feel like unnecessary expense, especially when you've already hired a wedding photographer...

BUT, when we've asked real brides what they would have done differently on their wedding day an overwhelming number of them regretted not opting for a wedding video! We sat down for a Q&A with wedding videographer Kathryn Ray, the face behind the camera at Evergreen Era Films, to get an industry insider's take on wedding day film.

What would you say to someone who is not sure about hiring a videographer?
Film is very different from photos. A lot of people seem to think it is redundant to have both, when in reality it is a totally different experience than flipping through still pictures. The beauty and purpose of film is that it is an all-encompassing sensory experience, where a mix of movement, music, and voice pull you back into each emotional moment. A lot of the most important parts of a wedding day aren't just visual, and things like personal vows or kind speeches are things that can quickly be forgotten. Therefore I always encourage people... if you can make it happen, hire a videographer!

Why is wedding cinematography so "expensive"?
I explain this in more detail on my blog, but in general there is a lot of time and expensive equipment invested in filming weddings. The amount of hours spent with you before and during the wedding day pales in comparison to the amount of time spent in the editing room turning hours of raw footage into something beautiful... not to mention music licenses, USBs, shipping, packaging, travel, and many other costs associated with each wedding film.

What is your specific approach to capturing a wedding?
Being present when I need to be and being hidden when I need to be. My goal is that the only time anyone will notice me is when the couple needs me to make them laugh, help make a decision, or bring them back to the present moment amidst all the chaos. I don't like to be the boss and controlling the day; I like to let it flow naturally and capture the honest moments that occur between people and their celebration. I don’t follow a guidebook... but that makes things real, and I think that is more important than following a strict formula.

How do you make couples feel comfortable in front of the camera?
One of the most important things I do is make couples feel comfortable with me first. I make sure that we meet, either in person or on video chat before we move forward in booking, where I ask them questions about themselves and what their relationship is like, along with sharing more about myself. I am naturally a positive, joyful, and gentle-hearted person and I think that creates a space of immediate comfort in most people.

I also use smaller and simpler gear rather than huge rigs, so instead of making people feel like they are on reality TV, they are less aware of my presence and interact more honestly.

What can couples do to help YOU ensure they'll receive a video that they love?
I think the first thing is to make sure they love my previous work. I make each wedding unique but my style stays the same.

Secondly, HIRE A SECOND VIDEOGRAPHER, always! This is super important to have a more dynamic film, to capture more footage, and to keep a solo videographer less stressed and more focused/present throughout the day.

I also have all of my couples tell me what is most important to them throughout the day. Communicating this is critical! That way I am able to create a film that has a strong focus on those unique specifics that depict a more intimate and personal reflection of the couple.

Any other tips for the wedding couple?
Your photographers and videographers are going to be with you a lot throughout the day and you will be communicating with them quite a bit beforehand. Make sure you really enjoy them personally, along with their work, and want them to be a part of that day. I think it's important that they bring positivity and purpose to it and that they aren’t just there to capture it.

About Evergreen Era Films | Kathryn is a gentle heart with a contagious laugh. She finds respite when immersed in the wilderness, sipping on Earl Grey Tea, and surrounded by people she loves most. As an adventurer with a travelers spirit she will always call the Blue Ridge Mountains home, where she was born and has worked as a filmmaker for the past year after graduating with a photography degree from Appalachian State University. She prefers hugs over handshakes, honesty over perfection, and individuality over tradition. She strives to serve others the best that she can in all things her heart pursues. She gets motivation from learning more about the world and it’s incredible people, exploring new ideas, and growing in her person-hood.